FACTS

In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce and Pat May unpack the Second Ecumenical Council—Constantinople 381, the gathering that completed the Nicene Creed and reshaped the map of early Christianity. Convened by Emperor Theodosius I, this council not only reaffirmed the divinity of Christ but boldly confessed the Holy Spirit as Lord and Giver of Life, closing the door on Arianism and Macedonian heresies once and for all.Join us as we trace the intense theological debates, the tragic death of Meletius of Antioch, Gregory of Nazianzus’ resignation, and the dramatic rise of Constantinople as “New Rome.” We’ll explore how these events deepened East–West tensions, redefined Church hierarchy, and left an enduring mark on both Orthodox and Catholic tradition.If you’ve ever wondered how the Creed we recite today took its final shape—or why Constantinople became the new center of gravity for the Eastern Church—this episode is a must-listen.Topics include:The fall of Arian influence and the enforcement of Nicene orthodoxyMeletius of Antioch’s death and the Antiochene schismGregory of Nazianzus’ presidency and resignationThe rise of Nectarius and the making of “New Rome”Why Rome rejected Canon 3—and how Chalcedon later affirmed the councilIf you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #ChurchHistory #EcumenicalCouncils #NiceneCreed #TheologyPodcast

In this first episode of our new series, The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Stephen Boyce and Pat May explore the Council of Nicaea (325), the landmark gathering that shaped the foundation of Christian orthodoxy. We’ll discuss the historical context, the Arian controversy, the role of Constantine, and how the Nicene Creed became a defining statement of faith for the Church. Join us as we trace the debates, decisions, and lasting legacy of the first ecumenical council.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CouncilOfNicaea #EcumenicalCouncils #ChurchHistory #ChristianTheology

Are you thinking about leaving your current denomination to become Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican? Before you make that move, there are serious questions you need to wrestle with. In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce walks through five essential questions every believer should ask before switching church traditions. From understanding doctrine beyond surface-level aesthetics, to wrestling with the sacraments, spiritual authority, family impact, and the dangers of rushing, this conversation will help you slow down, think deeply, and discern wisely.Whether you’re curious, struggling, or seriously considering a change, this episode will ground you in both Scripture and church history, reminding us that the faith we confess must be more than a reaction—it must be a conviction.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#ChurchHistory #CatholicConvert #OrthodoxConvert #AnglicanConvert #ChristianPodcast #ProtestantToCatholic #ProtestantToOrthodox #ProtestantToAnglican #FaithJourney #DenominationSwitch #ApostolicFaith #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May dive into the reality of spiritual warfare and the angelic battles surrounding us, especially within the sacred mystery of the Mass. Drawing on Scripture, Church tradition, and the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, we explore how the liturgy is not only worship but also a place where heavenly and spiritual realities converge.This episode unpacks the unseen conflict between the powers of darkness and the hosts of heaven, reminding us that Christians are called to stand firm in prayer, faith, and vigilance. Join us as we reflect on the role of St. Michael, the spiritual meaning of the Mass, and the hope we have in Christ’s victory.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#StMichael #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianPodcast #WeAreAtWar #Mass #Liturgy #AngelicHosts #MichaelTheArchangel #ChristianFaith #Catholic #Orthodox #Anglican #Prayer #FaithAndTradition #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #PatMay

Join Dr. Stephen Boyce and Fr. James Gadomski (host of Barely Protestant) for a joint livestream as we discuss the shocking news: The Vatican embraces LGBTQ+ pilgrims inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Together we’ll examine what this move means for Catholicism, ecumenical dialogue, and the broader Christian world. Is this a genuine act of hospitality, or a troubling signal of confusion within Rome? Don’t miss this important conversation that cuts to the heart of faith, tradition, and the future of the Church.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #Vatican #LGBTQ #CatholicChurch #StPetersBasilica #Rome #Christianity #Ecumenism #DrStephenBoyce #FrJamesGadomski #BarelyProtestant #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Where should someone start studying church history? Many people jump straight to Augustine, the Creeds, or the Councils — but the real starting point is with Eusebius of Caesarea, the first great historian of the Church.In this episode of The FACTS Podcast with Dr. Stephen Boyce, we explore: • Who Eusebius was and why he matters. • How his Ecclesiastical History preserves documents we would otherwise have lost. • Why he gives the best “map” of Christianity from the apostles to Constantine. • How to read him critically, seeing both his strengths and biases. • A recommended pathway for continuing after Eusebius with the Apostolic Fathers, Apologists, and Nicene defenders.If you’ve ever asked, “Where should I begin my study of church history?” — this is the episode for you.👉 Subscribe for more episodes on the early Church, theology, and history.👉 Comment below: Where did you start your journey into church history?#ChurchHistory #Eusebius #EarlyChurch #ChristianHistory #ChurchFathers #TheologyPodcast #EcclesiasticalHistory #ApostolicFathers #Constantine #Christianity #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #DrStephenBoyce

Will there really be a Third Temple in Jerusalem? Or has the Temple already been fulfilled in Christ?In this episode, Stephen Boyce and Pat May examine one of the most debated questions in Bible prophecy. We’ll explore why a physical third temple is unnecessary and how Jesus Himself is the final Temple, as revealed in John’s Gospel (John 2:19-21) and Revelation (21-22).We’ll also expose how Dispensationalist interpretations of Ezekiel’s Temple and Revelation often miss the point of the New Covenant. Ezekiel’s visionary temple and John’s apocalyptic imagery are not blueprints for future construction—they’re prophetic symbols fulfilled in Christ and His Church.What we’ll cover:Why Christ is the ultimate Temple of God (John 1:14, John 2:19-21)Problems with rebuilding a Temple under the Law of Moses todayHow Ezekiel’s Temple points to a spiritual reality, not a future buildingMisinterpretations of Revelation by DispensationalistsThe Church as God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3, Ephesians 2)Why focusing on Christ as the Temple transforms worship and prophecyJoin us as we bring clarity to one of the most misunderstood eschatological topics.#BibleProphecy #ThirdTemple #Eschatology #Dispensationalism #BookOfRevelation #EzekielTemple #ChristTheTemple #NewCovenant #EndTimesDebate #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Isaiah 7:14 declares, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” But was Isaiah pointing to Mary and the birth of Jesus—or someone else in his own day? In this episode, we explore the historical context of Isaiah’s prophecy, King Ahaz’s crisis, the meaning of the Hebrew word ‘almâh, and the different interpretations that have been offered throughout history. Was the sign fulfilled in Isaiah’s time through Hezekiah, Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, or the remnant of Israel? Or is Matthew correct in applying it directly to the virgin birth of Christ?In this episode of FACTS, Dr. Stephen Boyce unpacks Isaiah’s prophecy, exploring both its immediate context and ultimate fulfillment, and shows how the New Testament identifies Mary—the mother of Jesus—as the true fulfillment of the promise of Immanuel, ‘God with us.'🔑 Topics Covered: • Historical background: Ahaz, Assyria, and the Syro-Ephraimite War • The sign of Immanuel in Isaiah’s day • The debate over ‘almâh (“young woman” vs. “virgin”) • Ancient translations: LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate choices • Double fulfillment: immediate sign + ultimate prophecy • Why Matthew applies Isaiah 7:14 to Mary and Jesus👉 Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most debated prophecies in Scripture!If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #VirginBirth #Isaiah7 #Immanuel #Mary #BiblicalProphecy #OldTestament #NewTestament #Apologetics #BibleStudy #ProphecyFulfilled #MessianicProphecy #JesusChrist #Theology #ChristianPodcast #GospelTruth #StephenBoyce #DrStephenBoyce #FACTSPodcast

The Book of Enoch has fascinated Christians, historians, and conspiracy theorists alike. Quoted in the New Testament and preserved in ancient manuscripts, it raises the question: If it’s so important, why isn’t it in the Bible?In this episode, Stephen Boyce will break down the three major Enochic writings—1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, and 3 Enoch—exploring their origins, contents, and influence. We’ll cover why the Ethiopian Orthodox Church includes 1 Enoch in its canon, why the rest of Christianity does not, and what early Jewish and Christian communities thought of these books.Drawing from historical evidence, manuscript studies, and centuries of canon debates, we’ll look at: • The difference between canonical Scripture and pseudepigrapha • The limited and regional reception of Enoch • Why its absence from the Hebrew Bible matters • How the New Testament uses 1 Enoch without affirming it as Scripture • Theological and textual reasons for its exclusionIf you’ve ever wondered about the Watchers, Azazel, or why Jude quotes Enoch, this episode will give you the historical and theological clarity you need.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 ⸻#BookOfEnoch #Enoch #BiblicalCanon #BibleHistory #Apocrypha #Pseudepigrapha #Watchers #Azazel #1Enoch #2Enoch #3Enoch #AncientManuscripts #EthiopianOrthodox #BiblicalStudies #ChurchHistory #DeadSeaScrolls #BiblePodcast #ChristianPodcast #TheologyPodcast #CanonDebates #StephenBoyce

Did the earliest Christians believe that salvation was permanent and irreversible? In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce, with special guest Jack Bull, examines what the Apostolic Fathers actually taught about eternal security, falling away, and the necessity of perseverance in the faith.We explore key texts from the Didache, 1 Clement, 2 Clement, the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp, and the Shepherd of Hermas—highlighting how the early Church warned believers about the real danger of apostasy and the importance of obedience, repentance, and endurance.If you’ve been told that the doctrine of “Once Saved, Always Saved” has historical roots, this episode may surprise you. The message from the early Church is consistent and clear: Salvation is not a free pass. It’s a call to a lifelong, faithful walk with Christ.#OnceSavedAlwaysSaved #EternalSecurity #ApostolicFathers #Didache #IgnatiusOfAntioch #ShepherdOfHermas #Polycarp #ChurchFathers #EarlyChurch #ChristianTheology #ConditionalSecurity #SalvationDoctrine #FallFromGrace #StephenBoyce #FACTSPodcast #ChristianHistory #BiblicalTruth #PerseveranceOfTheSaints #FaithAndWorks #Patristics #JackBullStephen's writings: https://independent.academia.edu/StephenBoyce4Here is a link to Dr Bull's channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Patristica👉 Don’t forget to like and share if you want more historical and biblical theology from the early Church!